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Music Hall CD-25.5 vs CD-25 w/mods??

I was going to pick up a NAD C542 but now thinking of going for a Music Hall CD-25. I can get a C-25 w/level 3 mods for $200 more then the NAD but now found I can buy the newest Music Hall MMF CD-25.5 for $540.00 brand new(which is $60 less then the 25 w/mods). My question is: did they improve the 25.5 to the point where it would be up there with a MMF CD-25 with mods?? Unfortunately I can't go much higher $$ wise, $400 was my limit but might as you can see I'm pushing it a bit. Also thinking it maybe overkill considering my system. Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated..
My modest system:
NAD T752
Paradigm Studio 20v3
Technics SL-Q2 Phono
AudioSource Sub(next on my list for replacing)
Yamaha CDX-710 CD-Player(15 Yrs old,getting replaced now)
pmt1209
milpai's avatar
milpai
2,372 posts
 
The NAD C542's power cord is detachable (the BEE's is not). I am not sure if using a better power will void the warranty.
pmt1209 OP
44 posts
 
Milpai, the power cord is not detachable... Below is the link to the C542's Owners Manual, page 3 shows the rear of the unit .

http://207.228.230.231/manual/NAD-C542.pdf
pmt1209 OP
44 posts
 
I received a e-mail giving me the lowdown on the Music Hall CD-25 and CD-25.2. The 25.2 uses a new transport as well as a 24 bit/192K DAC versus the 24 bit/ 96K DAC of the CD-25. The new 192K DAC's do not support HDCD. The not supporting HDCD kind of threw me, why would a newer version of this player not support HDCD?? Is it a non issue or is HDCD going to go the way of the Beta videotape?? Also found out the Onix X-CD99 is the older CD-25 with nicer cosmetics and a better subchassis. The guys at Underwood were great, very fast response.. I was impressed.. The non HDCD has me backpeddling a bit..
seditious3
184 posts
 
I bought the modded CD-25 because I want HDCD. I have a lot of HDCD, mostly Grateful Dead. If you don't have many HDCD, and chances are you don't, then don't sweat it.
milpai's avatar
milpai
2,372 posts
 
Yes Pmt1209 - I stand corrected. I was thinking about the C352 integrated Vs the 320BEE integrated. So what decision have you made? I know - it is exciting and confusing - all at the same time :-)
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